Empowered Relationship Podcast: Your Relationship Resource And Guide

Conflict is an inevitable aspect of any relationship, but how we handle it can make all the difference in the world. Whether you're finding that your disagreements escalate quickly or that issues get swept under the rug and resurface later, understanding your and your partner's conflict style can be a game-changer. How do you transform these clashes into opportunities for growth and deeper connection? The key lies in recognizing the patterns and learning the skills to navigate through them effectively. In this episode, we dive deep into the dynamics of different conflict styles—volatile, validating, and avoidant—and offer insights into how these patterns play out in relationships. You'll discover the importance of understanding not just your style but also your partner's, and how mismatched styles can be addressed for better harmony. With practical guidance and real-world examples, this discussion aims to equip you with the tools to foster a more resilient and connected relationship, even in the face of disagreements. Tune in to explore how you can create a new positive dynamic in your relationship by embracing and working with your unique conflict styles. Dr. Don Cole is the Clinical Director of The Gottman Institute and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Washington. Along with his wife, Dr. Carrie Cole, he founded The Center for Relationship Wellness. With over 30 years of experience, he has worked with individuals and couples in various areas, including marital therapy, affair recovery, depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, parenting, and personality disorders. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:55 The three conflict styles: volatile, validating, and avoidant. 14:38 Conflicts arise in mismatched styles: the validator vs. the avoidant. 17:17 Understanding conflict styles: it's not about maturity or emotional intelligence. 19:34 Examining the volatile style: comfort with high energy and emotions. 26:06 The validator style: problem-solving and seeking understanding. 33:56 Managing conflict with avoidant partners: strategies for understanding. 35:37 Using the Gottman Rapoport style for effective communication. 43:46 Tools and resources: books, workshops, and psychoeducational materials. 45:56 Normalizing conflict: learning to accept and grow through differences. Mentioned Fight Right: How Successful Couples Turn Conflict Into Connection (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Evolve in Love (program) Connect with Dr. Don Cole Websites: centerforrelationshipwellness.com Facebook: facebook.com/TheCenterForRelationshipWellness X: x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FCtrRelWellness YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCmdTIdlzy6gAz1j7f4ggk_A LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/center-for-relationship-wellness Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Why do some relationships fizzle out while others seem to stand the test of time? We've all heard about the honeymoon phase—those butterflies in the belly, the excitement, and the dopamine rush—but what happens when that stage inevitably wanes? Relationships often hit a crossroads where familiarity sets in, and the novelty fades, posing a significant challenge for couples striving to maintain passion and deep connection. How can we make love last when our biology seems to be working against us? In this episode, we delve into the profound insights shared by a renowned biologist who explores the complexities of love from a biological standpoint. From understanding the chemicals that drive our attraction and attachment phases to practical strategies for reigniting excitement and intimacy, this conversation offers invaluable advice. Learn how to navigate the intricacies of your own love life by leveraging scientific knowledge to foster long-lasting, healthy relationships. Whether you're in a new relationship or have been with your partner for years, these insights can help you strengthen your bond and keep the spark alive. Dr. Liat Yakir is a distinguished biologist, writer, and lecturer specializing in the biology of emotions and human behavior. She advises organizations on neuro-management (also known as neuro-leadership), leveraging cutting-edge insights from brain research to cultivate exceptional leadership skills and practices. Dr. Yakir earned her Ph.D. and completed postdoctoral studies in molecular genetics. She also holds a master's degree in hormone research. With years of experience in science education and communication, she has made significant contributions at the Davidson Institute for Science Education, the educational arm of the Weizmann Institute Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 06:40 Understand love through a biological lens. 09:00 The three stages of love. 13:03 Attachment styles and their impact on relationships. 19:15 Why initial attractions can be misleading. 22:28 The conflict between stability and novelty in love. 30:08 The genetics of monogamy and polyamory. 32:53 Increasing dopamine levels to enhance relationships. 36:03 The role of jealousy and status in attraction. 38:11 Maintaining passion and intimacy in long-term relationships. 44:28 Overcoming sexual scripts and routine through play. 46:06 The importance of communication and appreciation in relationships. Mentioned A Brief History of Love (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find--and Keep--Love ERP 287: How To Engage In The Art Of Giving And Receiving: Using The Wheel Of Consent – An Interview With Dr. Betty Martin Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Dr. Liat Yakir Websites: en.liatyakir.com Facebook: facebook.com/liatyakir5976 Instagram: instagram.com/dr_liatya Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Money can be a daunting topic, especially when societal pressures and differing personal values come into play. How do we break free from these external expectations while fostering a healthy financial dynamic within our relationships? This episode delves deep into the intricate psyche of our monetary interactions, examining how they can reflect broader themes of security, belonging, and self-worth. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the financial expectations placed upon you or worried about aligning your monetary habits with those of a partner, you're not alone. In this episode, we explore practical strategies and thoughtful exercises to help partners cultivate a healthier relationship with money. We discuss the importance of defining wealth beyond mere numbers and how to recognize and address our individual money patterns. Through meaningful dialogues and engaging practices like the wealth mandala and satiation challenge, listeners are guided to become more conscious of their spending habits and financial goals. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a new perspective on managing money in a way that aligns with your values, fosters trust, and promotes a sense of fulfillment within your relationships. Elizabeth Husserl is a registered investment advisor representative, financial advisor, highly sought-after speaker, and cofounder of Peak360 Wealth Management, a boutique wealth planning firm. She does nonprofit work throughout the Americas and has led workshops at major tech companies, including Airbnb, Unity, and Google. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and daughter. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:19 The importance of psychological perspectives in financial advisory. 11:13 Defining wealth beyond monetary value. 18:14 Examining personal relationships with money. 28:29 Addressing trust and transparency in financial relationships. 31:16 Comparing consumer choices within community contexts. 34:16 Recognizing societal pressures and redefining success. 37:54 Building mindfulness and playfulness in financial conversations. 40:38 Exploring belonging and fulfillment without excess consumption. 49:23 Encouraging shared financial inquiry and practices for couples. Mentioned The Power of Enough (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Smart Couples Finish Rich (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Elizabeth Husserl Websites: elizabethhusserl.com Instagram: instagram.com/elizabethhusserl LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethhusserl Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Do you ever find yourself caught in repetitive patterns that hinder the growth and intimacy of your relationships? Whether it's a recurring conflict, a deep-seated trauma, or simply the inability to stay fully present, many of us struggle to break free from the habits and thoughts that get in the way of true connection. Imagine how transformative it could be to learn the strategies and skills that foster psychological flexibility, enabling you to navigate life's complexities with grace and authenticity. In this episode, we delve deep into the science and practice of psychological flexibility, exploring how openness, presence, and active engagement can revolutionize not just how we relate to others but how we relate to ourselves. Through expert insights and practical examples, we will uncover the smallest set of principles that do the most good in fostering a meaningful, connected life. So, get ready to learn how to align your actions with your deepest values, respond effectively to life's challenges, and unlock the full potential of your relationships. Steven C. Hayes is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Nevada, Reno. An author of 48 books and over 700 scientific articles, he originated Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. His book Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life was the best-selling self-help book in the US, and his TEDx talks and blogs have been seen or read by 4 million people. He is among the 30 most cited psychologists in the world. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 04:53 Exploring the origin and philosophy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 16:07 Integrating science and spirituality within ACT. 17:06 Understanding the nature of learning and vulnerability. 21:42 The role of humility in relationships and life. 23:38 Using psychological flexibility to navigate intimacy. 28:55 Embracing a beginner's mind in everyday life. 30:05 Active engagement and personal responsibility in values-driven actions. 36:22 The importance of validation and accountability in relationships. 37:45 Aligning values with actions for intentional living. 41:34 Breaking down the components of psychological flexibility. 45:28 Tuning into life's demands through psychological flexibility. 48:19 Continuous learning and personal growth: available resources. Mentioned Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) A Liberated Mind: How to Pivot Toward What Matters (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Doing What Matters in Times of Stress (*World Health Organization link) Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Dr. Steven Hayes Websites: stevenchayes.com Facebook: facebook.com/drstevenchayes X: x.com/stevenchayes YouTube: youtube.com/@StevenCHayes-yo7di Instagram: instagram.com/drstevenchayes LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/stevenchayes Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Significant life changes, such as perimenopause and menopause, can often be overwhelming. These phases can bring insecurities, misunderstandings, and health challenges that strain relationships. The emotional toll of these changes can be especially difficult when open dialogue and sound advice are scarce. So, how can we foster understanding and support within our relationships during these transformative years? In this episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of how hormonal changes impact both relationships and individual well-being. We explore the crucial role of exchanging masculine and feminine energies, the importance of proactive medical dialogues, and the benefits of clear communication. Using analogies like the Argentine tango, we highlight the need for both flexibility and defined roles in relationships. Practical advice on hormone therapy and maintaining vaginal health provides actionable steps. Additionally, listeners will discover valuable resources and programs designed to celebrate the wisdom and opportunities that come with aging. By addressing these topics, this episode aims to empower listeners to navigate midlife changes with confidence and resilience. Dr. Liz Lyster is an OB/GYN medical doctor, best-selling author and speaker, and an expert in perimenopause and menopause. In her private practice in the San Francisco Bay area, she helps women and men in midlife and beyond lose weight, have more energy, increase their motivation and drive, and generally feel great. She graduated from Cornell University, went to medical school at UC Irvine, and got her Masters degree at UCLA in Community Health Education. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 03:46 The Importance of education and communication in navigating menopause. 09:47 The balance of masculine and feminine energies in relationships. 14:24 Dr. Lyster emphasizes the need for women to proactively engage in medical discussions, advising preparation, and persistence in addressing sensitive health topics. 18:24 Launching the Miracle of Menopause online community. 22:59 Understanding testosterone's role in stress and productivity. 35:39 Addressing discomfort during sex with proper estrogen treatment and the importance of openness with partners to enhance intimacy and support. 38:34 How modern environmental stressors and nutrient issues are influencing the onset and experience of menopausal symptoms in women. 41:37 The debate on hormone therapy and bioidentical hormones. 46:09 How hormonal imbalances can affect emotional intimacy and communication within relationships, and the role of different hormones in maintaining well-being. 49:47 Societal perceptions, hormonal symphonies, and aging. Mentioned Go For Great!: Dr. Liz's Guide to Thrive at Every Age (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Go For Great (link) (e-book) Dr. Liz's Easy Guide to Menopause (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Dr. Liz Lyster Websites: https://drlizmd.com Facebook: facebook.com/DrLizLyster YouTube: youtube.com/user/thedrlizlyster Instagram: instagram.com/drlizlyster LinkedIn: instagram.com/drlizlyster Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Are you feeling disconnected in your relationship, particularly in the realm of sexual desire? Many couples struggle with mismatches in sexual needs and desire levels, leading to feelings of frustration, guilt, and even rejection. This disconnection can strain relationships, making intimacy seem like an elusive goal instead of a fulfilling part of life. But what if there were ways to bridge that gap and reignite the flame, regardless of societal pressures and personal insecurities? In this episode, we delve deep into the complexities of sexual desire within relationships. We explore the psychological, physiological, and emotional factors contributing to low desire and how cultural expectations shape our intimate lives. We offer practical advice on communicating about sexual mismatches, utilizing mindfulness to enhance connection and the importance of understanding different desire patterns. Whether you're dealing with the impacts of medication, past trauma, or shifting dynamics over time, this conversation provides insights and tools to create a more passionate and connected relationship. Jennifer Gunsaullus, Ph.D. is a Sexologist, Sociologist, Relationship Coach, Author, and International Speaker. A radical force for self-expression, Dr. Jenn has spent the last 20+ years tearing down social stigmas and shame around sexual expression. A celebrated author, Dr. Jenn is the writer of From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women, a self-help guide designed to liberate women and help them reclaim passion and pleasure both in and out of the bedroom. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:59 Exploring the complexities of low sexual desire. 14:11 Mismatched desires: Cultivating intention and understanding. 21:12 Mindfulness and sexual desire: Enhancing presence in intimacy. 24:17 Navigating body image concerns and their impact on desire. 27:21 Challenging outdated sexual norms for greater fulfillment. 31:23 The power of flexibility and creativity in sexual experiences. 35:48 Sustaining Long-term relationships through adaptation. 37:38 Using erotic stories and technology to enhance arousal. 41:44 Embracing new erotic concepts and understanding desires. 46:16 Prioritizing communication and vulnerability in relationships. 51:06 The crucial role of mindfulness and dialogue in sexual health. Mentioned 15 Best Audio Erotica Apps and Spicy Stories for Pleasure (link) From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Podcast - Sex Talk with Clint & the Doc Female sexual shame hurts us all | Jennifer Gunsaullus | TEDxPhoenixville (*YouTube link) (video) ERP 334: How to Practice Mindful Intimacy — An Interview With Dr. Jennifer Gunsaullus ERP 362: Understanding & Increasing Sexual Desire — An Interview with Dr. Lori Brotto ERP 444: A Major Block To Sexual Desire and Sexual Intimacy In Long-Term Relationship — An Interview With Irene Fehr ERP 287: How To Engage In The Art Of Giving And Receiving: Using The Wheel Of Consent – An Interview With Dr. Betty Martin ERP 314: How To Work Through The Complexities Of Sexual Desire In Relationship — An Interview Martha Kauppi ERP 211: How To Get Rid of Shame to Increase Pleasure In The Bedroom – an Interview with Ian Ferguson Evolve in Love (link) (program) Connect with Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus Websites: drjennsden.com Facebook: facebook.com/jennifer.gunsaullus X: x.com/DrJennsDen YouTube: youtube.com/user/drjennsden LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjennsden Pinterest: pinterest.com/drjennsden Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Breakups—few life events are as universally painful and disorienting. They can make even the strongest among us feel powerless, consumed by obsessive thoughts and emotions. When relationships feel addictive, their end can trigger a withdrawal-like experience, leaving us caught in a whirlwind of grief and longing. But how do we distinguish between healthy attachments and these addictive patterns? How can we navigate the heartache while reclaiming our sense of self and stability? In this episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of love addiction and breakups, offering listeners tangible strategies to handle these challenges. Through enlightening conversations, we discuss how to recognize and manage obsessive post-breakup thoughts, differentiate between healthy and addictive relationship tendencies, and understand the underlying psychological mechanisms at play. By equipping listeners with cognitive and behavioral tools, the episode aims to provide a roadmap for moving forward, emphasizing personal growth and self-awareness as key components of healing. Cortney is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist. She received her Ph.D. in Psychology from Texas A&M University in 2006 after completing her internship at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Cortney is an expert in eating pathology, addictions, self-deception, and cultural diversity in Psychology. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:52 Identifying love addiction symptoms and who it affects. 10:50 The process of breaking free from addictive relationships. 14:40 Differentiating between healthy attachment and love addiction. 17:21 The reality of relationship phases and their emotional impact. 20:28 How breakups can trigger obsessive focus on ex-partners. 24:52 Recognizing love addiction in high-functioning individuals. 28:37 How early childhood influences love addiction patterns. 33:07 Dr. Warren's personal journey toward relationship health. 35:26 How therapy and self-awareness help overcome relationship dysfunctions. 40:45 The concept of love as a necessary human experience. 43:57 Strategies for managing emotional distress post-breakup. 47:09 The role of cognitive-behavioral interventions in handling breakup symptoms. Mentioned Letting Go of Your Ex (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) TEDx Talk Honest Liars: The Psychology of Self-Deception (*Youtube) (video) Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) Connect with Dr. Cortney Warren Websites: drcortney.com/dr-cortney-warren Facebook: facebook.com/CortneySWarren X: x.com/DrCortneyWarren YouTube: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQGXD7Ms5oR3GzsPZl3Tjl_9qj71MezHj Instagram: instagram.com/drcortneywarren/?hl=en LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drcortney TikTok: tiktok.com/@drcortneywarren?lang=en Google Scholar: scholar.google.com/citations?user=Ka7bam4AAAAJ&hl=en Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Are you struggling to foster a deeper emotional connection with your partner? Relationship intimacy can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of a partnership. Many couples find themselves at a crossroads, wondering how to balance the demands of everyday life with the need for emotional and physical closeness. The pressure to maintain intimacy often leaves partners feeling disconnected and frustrated, particularly when unmet needs and unspoken expectations come into play. But what if there was a way to bridge this gap and intentionally build a relationship filled with clarity, connection, and mutual satisfaction? In this episode, we delve into practical strategies for enhancing vulnerability and emotional intimacy within your relationship. We'll explore how learning to meet each other's needs can transform your partnership, offering insights into overcoming common challenges such as gender stereotypes and differing intimacy styles. By embracing a holistic approach to intimacy, you can cultivate deeper connections and foster a more fulfilling, proactive relationship. Whether you're looking to redefine intimacy beyond just sex or seeking ways to communicate more effectively, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you intentionally design a thriving relationship. Pulling from their experiences personally in their 13+ years of marriage and professionally as a licensed counselor and certified coach, Angela and James Mitchell developed Love Intentionally to help couples design, implement, and sustain a conscious relationship rooted in depth and intimacy. Angela has been in the counseling field for over 20 years, working with abuse survivors, children, families, and couples. James is a transformational coach and lifelong entrepreneur, having helped hundreds of clients to live their best lives. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 08:56 Sharing the journey of opening up emotionally and strengthening connection. 12:12 The balance of emotional and physical intimacy to overcome gender stereotypes. 16:29 How a personal retreat evolved into DIY marriage retreats for intentional connection. 18:38 Exploring the importance of flexibility and openness in various forms of intimacy. 21:03 Understanding the holistic approach to intimacy, focusing on both emotional and physical closeness. 25:30 Introducing a key communication strategy called the "story in my head" technique for clearer dialogue. 27:34 The concept of creating a relationship North Star for maintaining a strategic partnership mindset. 31:39 Redefining intimacy beyond sex by exploring diverse intimacy styles. 34:08 The benefits of intentional planning by combining counseling principles with strategic life planning. 38:46 Addressing the challenges of balancing life's priorities while maintaining relationship focus. 43:57 Programs and methods for deepening intimacy. Mentioned ERP 211: How to Get Rid of Shame to Increase Pleasure in the Bedroom – An Interview with Ian Ferguson ERP 089: How to Use Love Languages to Strengthen Connection ERP 090: How To Use Love Languages To Strengthen Connection – Part Two ERP 303: How To Create Safe Conversations — An Interview With Drs. Harville Hendrix & Helen LaKelly Hunt ERP 323: One Of The Most Important Relationship Skills – Being Relational — An Interview With Terry Real Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) Connect with Angela and James Mitchell Websites: loveintentionally.com Facebook: facebook.com/loveintentionally.co Instagram: instagram.com/loveintentionally.co Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Have you ever felt like the internal turmoil you're battling is invisible to the rest of the world? Like no one truly understands the gravity of what you're experiencing because you appear calm and composed on the outside? The struggle to manage anxiety while maintaining healthy relationships is a complex and often misunderstood journey. The challenge lies not only in dealing with the anxiety itself but also in finding ways to communicate your needs to those around you effectively. In this episode, we delve deep into the real-life experiences of someone who has navigated the tumultuous waters of anxiety for over seven years. It covers practical tools and resources for managing anxiety, the crucial distinction between everyday stress and anxiety disorders, and the importance of clear and compassionate communication in relationships. This discussion offers a plethora of actionable advice and relatable insights to help listeners better understand and manage their anxiety while nurturing their relationships. Dr. Jeanne Retief is the founder of FIGGI Beauty Skincare and The Anxious Calm E-Learning platform for those seeking to peacefully coexist with their anxiety. After her panic disorder diagnosis, she left behind her career in international human rights to find balance in her new normal. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 05:29 Jeanne Retief's seven-year journey and finding balance. 08:05 The importance of hope and living in the present. 10:51 Introduction to figgy beauty and anxious calm resources. 14:31 Differentiating everyday stress from anxiety disorders. 19:37 Using code words for emotional communication. 22:52 The hidden turmoil of anxiety. 25:01 The reality of panic attacks. 27:32 Anxiety and its misrecognition. 32:18 Struggling with stigmatization and seeking help. 34:45 Relational dynamics and open communication. 38:30 Supporting each other during anxiety. 43:28 Explaining anxiety to children. 45:26 Discovering and embracing high sensitivity. Mentioned Evolve in Love (*Dr. Jessica Higgins program) (link) The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You (Amazon affiliate link*) (book) Connect with Jeanne Retief Websites: figgibeauty.com | docjeanne.com Facebook: facebook.com/p/FIGGI-100075876828370/?paipv=0&eav=AfZJP7s4XjYP5eyIQKhkqlwpntG2pmLZtGWGUf_YVwVHncu6yHjrr1cOqWCuOxrdLAU&_rdr Pinterest: uk.pinterest.com/figgibeauty LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-jeanne-retief Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.

Have you ever found yourself in the heat of an argument, only to later regret words spoken in anger? Or perhaps you have felt a simmering resentment beneath the surface, unable to express it constructively. Anger can be like a storm, sudden and tumultuous. It's a potent emotion that, when mismanaged, can wreak havoc on even the most loving relationships. Anger is often seen as the villain, but beneath it lies a complex tapestry of emotions that, when understood, can lead to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. In this episode, we delve into strategies for managing anger and improving communication in relationships. You'll learn how to identify the warning signs of anger, take constructive time-outs, and engage in active listening to better understand your partner's perspective. Additionally, we explore the underlying emotions that often fuel anger and discuss how awareness and empathy can help break the cycle of conflict. By understanding and addressing these deeper feelings, you can foster a more harmonious and supportive relationship. Alastair Duhs is an anger management expert. Over the last 30 years, he has taught over 15,000 men and women how to control their anger. He is the founder of The Complete Anger Management System, a transformative coaching program that helps people control their anger in as little as 30 days. Alastair is the host of the Anger Secrets podcast, where he shares insights and strategies for effective anger management. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 07:43 Understanding the root of anger in relationships. 11:39 Developing effective communication strategies. 13:44 Gender differences in expressing emotions. 16:55 Exploring different forms of abuse. 22:35 The impact of emotional immaturity and resentment. 27:43 Recognizing and addressing avoidance in conflicts. 33:34 Short-term strategies for managing anger. 38:51 Long-term strategies for managing anger. 40:18 The role of stress management in healthy relationships. 42:59 Seeking help and the challenges involved. 46:54 Witnessing change through group therapy sessions. Mentioned Breaking The Anger Cycle (free training) (link) ERP 018: How to Deal With Feelings of Anger in Relationship ERP 450: How to Develop a Healthy Relationship with the Emotion of Anger — An Interview with Bronwyn Schweigerdt The 31-Day Kindness Challenge (free guide) (pdf) Connect with Alastair Duhs Websites: angersecrets.com Podcast: angersecrets.com/podcast Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins Twitter: @DrJessHiggins Website: drjessicahiggins.com Email: jessica@drjessicahiggins.com If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the "Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins" button here. Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship. Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here. Thank you! *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.